AOD or T-5 for my 306

My username is misleading-not running a big block--staying with 306. Anyway, I'm gonna build a car according to the rules of the FFW Trophy Stock class. Cars run 11-12's on the motor in this class. I am up in the air on which way to go with a tranny. It was a 5 spd until I swapped in the big block for a few months and now it is set up for an Auto but I still have the 5 spd pedal assy to convert back if I decide to. I've seen both work well but I'm also curious about the longevity of each. The T-5 is so violent when launching that I think it might break faster-plus there is a 200 lb weight break if I run an AOD. Flood me with opinions and facts guys and gals, thanks!!
(BTW-it will be a carbureted 88 GT...)